Aaron Rodgers reportedly wants his next NFL team to “roll out the red carpet” for him

Aaron Rodgers, 41, is one of the most successful active quarterbacks in the league with a Super Bowl and four MVPs.

Aaron Rodgers reportedly wants his next NFL team to “roll out the red carpet” for him

Aaron Rodgers (Image via Imago)

Former Green Bay Packers and New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers had reportedly been hesitant about the Pittsburgh Steelers’ interest. According to sources close to the situation, Rodgers felt the team had not made enough effort.

His expectations from potential suitors included a more enthusiastic and personalized recruitment process. The Steelers, while interested, had apparently not matched those expectations in recent discussions.

This hesitation stemmed partly from how the New York Jets had handled his exit earlier this year. Rodgers had been cut loose by the Jets in a manner he considered abrupt and disrespectful. As a result, he had developed a preference for environments where he would feel valued and prioritized. The emotional fallout from the same seems to be influencing his approach to free agency this offseason.

The Athletic’s Michael Silver revealed details of Rodgers’ stance during a recent appearance on the Scoop City podcast hosted by Dianna Russini and Chase Daniels. He referenced a conversation with Rams wide receiver Davante Adams, Rodgers’ former teammate.

Adams claimed Rodgers was not feeling appreciated enough by Pittsburgh’s current approach. Rodgers had expressed interest in joining a team that would “sweep him off his feet” during recruitment.

“I think Aaron wants someone to roll out the red carpet for him. That is what he is looking for,” Silver stated during the interview.

Adams reportedly suggested that Aaron Rodgers’ expectations were shaped by the way the Jets had released him. He believed Rodgers was seeking a sense of care and enthusiasm from teams pursuing him.

A few months prior, Aaron Rodgers had said he would love to join a team that truly wanted him. He also mentioned he hoped that the team would already have a competitive talent base in place. The Steelers, with a promising young core, could meet that condition on paper. However, their reserved recruiting style may have clashed with Rodgers’ current mindset and emotional needs.

Amid Aaron Rodgers’ concern, the Steelers are sure to draft two QBs in the first round

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers remain uncertain about their quarterback situation. With veteran Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson currently on the roster, general manager Omar Khan emphasized the need to add two more quarterbacks before training camp.

Aaron Rodgers (2)
Aaron Rodgers (Image via IMAGO)

We discussed in Palm Beach a couple of weeks ago. We go to camp with four quarterbacks. Right now, we have two on the roster. All options are on the table on how we acquire those last two. I assure you we’ll have four when we get to Latrobe (for training camp).

Omar Khan said on Tuesday

Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that Aaron Rodgers’ uncertainty would not impact their draft strategy. “It does not,” he responded when asked if this uncertainty influenced their draft plans.

One name gaining significant traction is Jaxson Dart, the former Ole Miss quarterback projected as a potential first-round pick. Dart has impressed scouts with his poise, arm strength, and decision-making. Many, including analyst Dan Orlovsky, have labeled him the “steal of the draft.”

The Steelers, holding the No. 21 overall pick, are among the teams rumored to be seriously considering Dart if available.

Tomlin acknowledged the draft’s potential influence on future acquisitions.

“What you do in the draft oftentimes affects maybe some talent acquisition that happens after,” Tomlin said of the importance of the draft.

As April 24 inches closer, the Pittsburgh Steelers need to figure out what their plans are and how they are going to draft. The Steelers have maintained 18 consecutive seasons with winning records, and the intensity of competition rises with every passing year. Without a solid signal caller in the centre, they might not see a 19 adding to that list.